Arthritis And Facet Joints

Dr. Nikesh Seth, voted a Top Doc every year from 2015 – 2018, treats all types of arthritis including osteoarthritis. At Integrated Pain Consultants, osteoarthritis is a common complaint and is a degenerative disease that breaks down the cartilage in facet joints. When this occurs, the lack of cartilage in the joints causes stiffness, immobility, and pain.

HOW FACET JOINTS ARE RELATED TO OSTEOARTHRITIS

Facet joints are in the back side of the spine. The facet joint itself is comprised of two “pieces” with cartilage in between. These are held within a capsule that creates a fluid. With enough fluid and cartilage, the joint can move with ease, and the bones don’t rub against one another. However, this isn’t the case when that cartilage or fluid breaks down or is missing.

Facet joint arthritis can happen with age or with excessive use. There is no way to “replace” the cartilage in the joint, but pain management is available and, in some cases, strengthening the ligaments (fibrous tissues that connect bone to bone) may be possible. A facet injection, or medial branch block, can provide quick and immediate relief. There is no risk of addiction or other highly dangerous side effects.

Another pain management option is radiofrequency ablation. With this alternative therapy, there is no injection. Instead, radiofrequency is used to minimize pain.

CONTACT DR. NIKESH SETH AND INTEGRATED PAIN CONSULTANTS TODAY

Trust in the expertise of a clinic featuring double board-certified physicians in pain management and anesthesiology. Facet joint arthritis cannot be “fixed” or cured, which makes alternative therapies that aren’t addictive or dangerous a preferred choice for most patients. With minimally-invasive or non-invasive pain treatments, chronic pain can be safely treated. Virtually all insurances are accepted, making pain relief within reach. Book your appointment at Integrated Pain Consultants today.